Lagos Swears-In Pilgrim Board’s Members
Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs Prince Anofiu Elegushi has sworn-in members of the state Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board.
Chairman of the board, Mr Shakir Gafar, Secretary, Imam AbdulHakeem Kosoko, others members – Dr Fausat Dabiri; Alhaji Yusuf Ara; Dr. AbdulKabir Paramole; Lola Shonibare and Alhaji Mojeed – Sanni are expected to coordinate hajj exercise for the next three years.
Elegushi urged them not to disappoint Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s confidence in their ability to discharge the duties creditably and diligently.
The commissioner said Lagos may not sell forms for the intending pilgrims due to the backlog of 3,016 intending pilgrims who have fully paid the Hajj fee.
“This large number which comprised the 2020/2021 sets left their hard-earned money in our custody till when the exercise will take place because of the trust and confidence they have in the state.
“We cannot afford to let down or abuse the confidence these 3,016 intending pilgrims reposed in the state by denying them their right on the principle of first come, first served. However, if by Allah’s grace, the Saudi Arabian authority increases our quota through the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), we might accommodate new entrants without jeopardising the chances of those already on ground,” he said.
He urged them to do their best by working selflessly to satisfy the government and intending pilgrims during the exercise.
Gafar thanked Governor Sanwo-Olu for finding them worthy of the duty.
He promised to ensure the board members work assiduously for a successful operation.
– The Nation
